Residents urge transparency, neighborhood protections as Dayton considers citywide NCA

Multiple residents who spoke at the public hearing said they welcome investment but want explicit safeguards to protect neighborhoods, require resident involvement in priority setting, and ensure downtown projects do not displace longtime residents.

Mary Sue Gmeiner said residents must shape how public investments affect neighborhoods and referenced a “right to the City,” urging solutions that address poverty without displacement. Ebony Hastings criticized the proposed governance structure and asked why the City Manager — rather than the elected Commission alone — would appoint board members; she requested more data on earlier NCAs (including Arcade collections and enforcement) and asked the Commission to delay action until further review.

Alec Johnson called for regular public reporting on the NCA’s finances and outcomes, asked for balanced investment that includes West Dayton, and urged labor standards such as local hiring and apprenticeships. Tara Campbell pressed the Administration for clarity about a potential $1 million neighborhood development allocation, asking where funds would be allocated and how residents would participate in decisions.

Residents’ speakers repeatedly asked that the Commission make NCA financial information publicly available and to consider changes to board appointments to increase democratic oversight before adopting any enabling legislation.